How to Use Mineral Oil on Wood

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Mineral oil has many uses. It can be used to clean, eradicate dryness and to facilitate enemas. Mineral oil is also used to condition wood and is great to use on butcher blocks, wooden counter tops and a variety of furniture. Specialty products, such as butcher block oil, are available for purchase, but they are merely mineral oil in fancy packages with high prices. Before using mineral oil on wood, always test out the oil on a small area of the wood before proceeding to ensure no damage occurs.

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Things You'll Need

  • Mineral Oil

  • 2 Washcloths

  • Lemon Juice

  • Fork

  • Small Bowl

Step 1

Mix 1 part mineral oil to 1 part lemon juice in a small bowl. It is not necessary to squeeze an actual lemon to get the juice. You can purchase real lemon juice in a bottle from your local grocery store.

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Step 2

Whisk the mineral oil and lemon juice with a fork to mix well. A few good whisks should be all it takes to mix the ingredients.

Step 3

Insert the end of a washcloth into the mineral oil mixture and wring out any excess moisture.

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Step 4

Scrub the wood with the washcloth using a circular motion. Use medium to hard pressure. Allow the mineral oil to set for at least an hour.

Step 5

Buff the entire piece of wood with the second washcloth using quick, circular motions with light to medium pressure. Repeat this process once a month to keep your wood looking its best.

Tip

Mineral oil can be applied directly to a butcher's block with no need to mix the oil with lemon or buff away.

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